It’s never too late to get into exercise, and the results can be rewarding, enjoyable and less frightening than you might think. Exercising in later life can make the body feel much younger, helping relieve muscle tension and ease joint pain.
Alongside its physical benefits, exercise also has several mental health benefits, as it releases endorphins. Plus, it encourages you to get out and about, meet new people and might even become your new favourite hobby!
So, with that in mind, what are the best and most gentle ways to take up exercise as you age? Explore our guide to find out more.
The best types of exercise for older adults
According to the NHS’ physical activity guidelines for older adults, some of the best forms of exercise include walking, swimming, dancing and cycling. Learn more about each type below to discover your new favourite way to move.
1. Walking
If your daily activity is typically low, it’s best to start with small changes, such as walking. Walking raises the heart rate and tones muscles while being one of the gentlest forms of exercise. Plus, it’s completely free, and you can enjoy getting out in nature!
To help motivate you and maintain the habit, it might be worth investing in a pedometer or fitness watch, which will encourage you to get out and walk every day.
In addition, comfortable walking shoes are essential, so explore our range of trainers to find your perfect pair.
We also have comfortable athleisure clothing designed for movement, alongside thermals and padded jackets, which are a must-have on chilly mornings.
2. Swimming
Swimming is low impact, which makes it the ideal gentle exercise for older adults. Lane swimming is a great way to get started, allowing you to go at your own pace, and many local gyms and swimming baths will have dedicated time slots for this daily.
If you want to take your swimming up a notch, there will likely be an array of classes available, like aqua aerobics. This can improve flexibility, strengthen muscles and build cardiovascular endurance.
3. Dancing
If you love dancing – great news! It’s also one of the best forms of exercise for any age group. Whether you want to dance to lose weight, improve posture or maintain muscle strength, you can find dance classes in your preferred style, including ballet, salsa or ballroom.
Our athleisure collection includes pull-on trousers, leggings, camisoles and loose-fitting tops to keep you cool and comfortable while dancing.
4. Cycling
Although cycling can be one of the most intense forms of exercise if you go fast or on hilly terrain, you can adapt it to suit your fitness level.
Whether you like to get out and about on roads and trails or prefer using a stationary exercise bike at the gym, there are plenty of ways to enjoy cycling! It’s low-impact, meaning it’s gentle on your joints, but it will improve cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and balance.
5. At-home workouts
If you prefer to exercise within the comfort of your home, why not invest in fitness equipment to improve your workouts? Whether you need a new yoga mat, resistance bands for pilates or dumbbells for aerobics, we have you covered.
Once you’ve found your new favourite type of exercise, check out these related articles on our blog to ensure you’re comfortable and stylish while working out: